WHAT DID YOU DO BEFORE YOUR CURRENT BUSINESS? – working as community arts and crafts tutor in outreach classes with dementia sufferers in Forest of Dean, pottery, painting, silk and glass painting, mosaics, salt dough craft etc.

WHAT MADE YOU START YOUR CURRENT BUSINESS? - a love of working with silver, and wanting to challenge myself that I could do it. (start a business and run it successfully), I am also passionate about creating jewellery which is ethically sound, and as there wasn’t much choice then I wanted to help make it available to as many people as possible .

WHAT DO YOU MOST ENJOY ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS? - Benchwork - being able to get totally absorbed in a new challenging piece which I have just worked out how to do it right.

IF YOU HAD A MAGIC WAND WHAT WOULD YOU CHANGE ABOUT YOUR BUSINESS?Complete my workshop set up with a rolling mill, proper gas forge (with extraction),Another 3 work benches, and have the patio at the back built so I can open up the doors in the morning when the sun gets there (when we get it!)

WHERE DO YOU SEE YOURSELF IN 5 YEARS TIME? Studying, writing and working in the garden at times, only doing the odd bit of jewellery work, the pieces which I totally enjoy making (not having to earn, in other words)

DO YOU HAVE ANY USEFUL TIPS OR IDEAS THAT YOU COULD SHARE WITH THE OTHER CAP MEMBERS? - Don’t get down if you have a down day, but look for something to do which you know you CAN do. It will pass!

HOW HAS CAP BUSINESS CLUBS HELPED YOU IN YOUR BUSINESS? –CAP has introduced me to many other business people who have supported me over the last 3 years. The opportunity to learn about many aspects of social media, customer care, and how to do a presentation. Collaborations can be extremely useful in business. I’ve learned the importance of knowing other businesses well, so that I can help get referrals for them.

---------------------------------------------------------

Thank you Karin for spending some time answering these questions

- it's greatly appreciated.

The handmade silver earrings that Karin suggested for my wife Danielle were just the ideal choice. She absolutely loves them, especially the fact that they are not completely identical as a pair, but each have a real character of their own. Not to mention the fact that they were tremendous value and the presentation box/bag/wrapping just topped off the gift perfectly. Use Karin and Karosa Jewellery – you will not be disappointed. - Mark T

I love wearing the bracelet I bought from Karin at an event - the unusual, unique design was a perfect fit for my eclectic taste and the quality is evident in its weight - handmade &different - just how I like my jewellery! - Kerry Voke

"Karin's jewellery is beautiful! I chose a striking necklace and bracelet as a gift from my husband, and they have both become my favourite accessories. Their simplicity makes them so versatile and the pieces work brilliantly as a way of glamming up an evening outfit, or simply adding some pzazz to smart workwear. I have now added some ear-rings to my Karosa collection, and I know I will continue to be a loyal customer of Karin's." - Miranda Jenkins

For a friend 40th birthday myself and friends wanted to get a special present. I have seen a lot of Karins jewellery and know the quality is second to none, and that it is 100% hand made from ethical sources. As jewellery is such a personal item we decided to get a gift voucher so our friend could choose herself. I ordered it in the morning and received it in the afternoon, great quick service. Thank you. - Sarah T​

Buying a Christmas present for my wife is easy, but buying one that’s a little bit special takes more effort? ....not so when you have Karin from Karosa Jewellery at hand. I bought a beautiful necklace with matching earrings which not only look stunning but have interchangeable parts. The presentation box is also very eye catching which is important when giving to a loved one, in fact the whole experience was easy and a total pleasure. Would recommend to anyone.Paul J

"When we asked Karin to create something special for the Forest Business Womens' Network inaugral Awards' night our expectations were immediately exceeded. Karin has a natural ability to create jewellery with the WOW factor. She listens and truely understands just how special you want the pieces to be. Thank you Karin, you are truly a Rising Star!!" - Sally Phillips

"The quality of Karin's jewellery is fantastic and she is a great colleague to work with on many levels. It's been a pleasure working with you Karin and I hope to again in the future. Best wishes. - Antonia Coles

Just to confirm, the piece of jewellery has just arrived here safely. Susan is over the moon with it - far exceeds our expectations! Thank you. - Colin Allison

Karin provided some beautiful Christmas gifts for me to give to friends and family. My sister was delighted with her necklace and tells me it's her most often worn piece of jewellery. - Carol Soble